Zulu is Largest, Most Historic Black Mardi Gras Parade

Alabama A&M University alumnus Rodney P. Mason Jr. has been selected as King Zulu for the 2025 Krewe of Zulu Mardi Gras Parade, one of New Orleans’ most historic and celebrated traditions, and the largest Black Mardi Gras Parade. Mason was elected by more than 700 members of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, a historic organization established in 1909.

“The club was founded after its members attended a Vaudeville play called ‘There Never Was and Never Will Be a King Like Me,’” Mason explained. “Back then, Mardi Gras wasn’t inclusive of our community due to segregation, so our club created its own celebration, one that has thrived for over a century. Our most famous King Zulu was Louis Armstrong in 1949, and it’s truly an honor to carry on this legacy in 2025.”

Mason’s connection to the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club runs deep. His father, Rodney P. Mason Sr., was a member, and Mason himself has been involved for 18 years, first joining while he was a student at Alabama A&M University.

Arriving at AAMU on a band scholarship in 2003, Mason played trumpet for the Marching Maroon & White while studying telecommunications and political science. He returned home to New Orleans in 2008, where he has served on numerous committees for the Zulu organization and has been the recording secretary for the past nine years. In addition to his leadership in Zulu, Mason is a dedicated public servant, working in program support for capital projects administration with the City of New Orleans.

While the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club is well known for its spirited Mardi Gras celebrations, Mason emphasizes the organization’s dedication to community service.

“We’re not just a social club,” he said. “We give back, visiting schools and providing meals, organizing holiday gift baskets for Thanksgiving, and hosting Toys for Tots events for Christmas, among many other initiatives.”

Mason also addressed the club’s longstanding tradition of wearing black makeup during the parade, a practice rooted in its early origins.

“This tradition started in 1909 after our founders saw that Vaudeville play,” Mason said. “Even in 2025, we continue this practice to honor our forefathers, it’s never been about mockery but about preserving our history and customs.”

Mason credits Alabama A&M University for shaping his leadership and service mindset.

“Service is a core value at Alabama A&M University,” he said. “The motto, ‘Service is Sovereignty,’ has stayed with me. My five years on The Hill made me who I am today. Walking those hills of Normal, Alabama, prepared me for where I am now, with the City of New Orleans and as King Zulu 2025.”

As King Zulu, Mason will lead one of the most prestigious parades in New Orleans' Carnival season, culminating in an unforgettable Mardi Gras Day celebration.

“We’re a social organization, we celebrate, we party,” he explained. “But more importantly, we party with a purpose.”